Racks having swivel arms for supporting tools

ABSTRACT

A tool rack according to one embodiment generally includes a base for mounting the tool rack to a support surface. The base includes first and second spaced-apart ribs or flanges extending outwardly therefrom. The first rib has at least one aperture therein concentrically aligned with at least one aperture of the second rib. The tool rack also includes at least one arm. The arm includes a support rod having first and second spaced-apart end portions coaxially aligned with one other. The support rod&#39;s first and second end portions are respectively configured to be slidably positioned at least partially within the at least one aperture in the first rib and the at least one aperture in the second rib. Accordingly, the arm can be pivotally supported from the base such that the arm can swivel relative to the base.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to racks having arms capable of swivelingand supporting tools therefrom.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

The storage and organization of tools and other equipment is useful forallowing convenient retrieval of a tool when needed. Pegboard type hookshave been used to provide for storing and organizing tools linearlyalong a wall. But storing multiple tools in this manner can use up aconsiderable amount of wall space, which may not be available orsufficient for storing multiple tools.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

According to one aspect of the invention, a tool rack generally includesa base for mounting the tool rack to a support surface. The baseincludes first and second spaced-apart ribs or flanges extendingoutwardly therefrom. The first rib has at least one aperture thereinconcentrically aligned with at least one aperture of the second rib. Thetool rack also includes at least one arm. The arm includes a support rodhaving first and second spaced-apart end portions coaxially aligned withone other. The support rod's first and second end portions arerespectively configured to be slidably positioned at least partiallywithin the at least one aperture in the first rib and the at least oneaperture in the second rib. Accordingly, the arm can be pivotallysupported from the base such that the arm can swivel relative to thebase.

In another aspect of the invention, a tool rack generally includes abase for mounting the tool rack to a support surface. The base includesa channel having an upper surface and a lower surface spaced apart fromthe upper surface. The upper surface includes at least one openingextending generally vertically therein. The lower surface includes atleast one opening extending generally vertically therein andconcentrically aligned with the at least one opening of the uppersurface. The tool rack also includes at least one arm having a bar atone end portion of the arm and a tool support portion. The bar includesfirst and second spaced-apart end portions coaxially aligned with oneother. The bar's first and second end portions are configured to beslidably positioned at least partially within the respective openings ofthe upper and lower surfaces of the base. Accordingly, the arm can bepivotally supported from the base such that the arm can swivel relativeto the base.

According to a further aspect, the invention provides methods related toa tool rack having a base and at least one arm. In one exemplaryembodiment, a method generally includes pivotably mounting the arm tothe base without using any tools or fasteners by slidably positioningthe arm's first and second members at least partially within therespective openings of the upper and lower surfaces of the base suchthat the arm can swivel relative to the base.

In yet another aspect, the invention provides methods of making toolracks. In one exemplary embodiment, a method generally includesextruding a material to form a channel having an upper surface and alower surface spaced apart from the upper surface, forming at least oneopening that extends generally vertically in the upper surface of thechannel, forming at least one opening that extends generally verticallyin the lower surface of the channel and that is concentrically alignedwith the at least one opening of the upper surface, forming a piece ofsheet metal to have a generally U-shaped cross-section defining aninterior space, and attaching a support rod to the formed piece of sheetmetal such that the support rod is at least partially within theinterior space defined by the formed piece of sheet metal.

Further aspects and features of the present invention will becomeapparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. Inaddition, any one or more aspects of the invention may be implementedindividually or in any combination with any one or more of the otheraspects of the invention. It should be understood that the detaileddescription and specific examples, while indicating exemplaryembodiments of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustrationonly and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will become more fully understood from thedetailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a tool rack according to one exemplaryembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the base of the tool rack shown in FIG.1, and illustrating the base's generally C-shaped channel and mountingopenings for the arm according to one exemplary embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary arm and hooks that can beused with the tool rack shown in FIG. 1 according to one exemplaryembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 is an end elevation view of the arm shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of the exemplary support rod that isshown attached to the arm in FIG. 3, and illustrating the support rod'supper and lower end portions that can be slidably positioned withinmounting openings of the base shown in FIG. 2 according to one exemplaryembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the exemplary hook that is shownattached to the arm in FIG. 3, wherein the exemplary hook includes aconfiguration capable of supporting various types and sizes of toolsaccording to one exemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the exemplary stop that is shownattached to the arm in FIG. 3, wherein the stop can be used forinhibiting downward movement of a tool being supported by the armaccording to one exemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 is an elevation view of the exemplary stop shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a tool rack according to anotherexemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the base of the tool rack shown in FIG.9;

FIG. 11 is an elevation view of the base shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is an upper view of the base shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an exemplary bushing that can bepositioned at least partially within a mounting opening of the baseshown in FIGS. 10 through 12 according to an exemplary embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 14 is a front side elevation view of the bushing shown in FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a back side elevation view of the bushing shown in FIG. 13;

FIG. 16 is top view of the bushing shown in FIG. 13;

FIG. 17 is an upper perspective view of a tool rack according to anotherembodiment of the invention including a base as shown in FIGS. 10through 13 and three arms as shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 18 is a lower perspective view of the tool rack shown in FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a side elevation view of the tool rack shown in FIG. 17;

FIG. 20 is a top view of the tool rack shown in FIG. 17 with the top ofthe hoe shown in broken lines for clarity;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a tool rack including a base as shownin FIGS. 10 through 13 and three exemplary arms according to anotherembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a tool rack including a base as shownin FIGS. 10 through 13 and three exemplary arms according to anotherembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a tool rack according to anotherexemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a front portion of the base of the toolrack shown in FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a tool rack according to anotherexemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a tool rack according to anotherexemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a tool rack according to anotherexemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a tool rack according to anotherexemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a tool rack according to anotherexemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a tool rack according to anotherexemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of an exemplary bushing having a groovefor engagingly receiving a portion of an arm to thereby couple thebushing for common rotation with the arm;

FIG. 32 is a partial perspective view of a tool rack according toanother exemplary embodiment; and

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of one of the arms shown in FIG. 32.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

The following descriptions of the various embodiments are merelyexemplary in nature and are in no way intended to limit the invention,its application, or uses.

According to various aspects, the invention provides mechanisms thatprovide for easy assembly and attachment to commonly constructedvertical walls of the housing industry using common tools likescrewdrivers and other tools. In addition, various embodiments areconfigured to utilize space in an efficient manner in order to enhancestorability of various types of tools in various locations includingdifficult to utilize corner space. By way of example and as describedherein, various embodiments include at least one arm (e.g., arm 30 inFIG. 3, etc.) capable of stowage for tools, such as shovels, racks,brooms, and the like of general home and yard maintenance. As describedherein, the arms preferably provide for adjustability by pivotalrotation about a vertical axis, for example, to allow the arms to bepivotably moved from an area of common use, and also preferably provideadditional adjustability for locating tools at various locations alongthe arm length to improve usability and utility.

In one aspect, the invention relates to a channel-shaped featureattachable to adjacent vertical supporting structure so that the channellength runs generally horizontally along the horizon. When mounted inthis exemplary manner, the channel-shaped feature can also provide aplurality of mounting holes generally aligned with the vertical axis,thereby providing adjustability along the length of the channel.

In another aspect, the invention relates to an arm having a plurality ofgenerally horizontal holes along the arm length. These holes, however,could be other features such as lugs, tabs, grooves, wires, combinationsthereof, and/or other connecting features. As described and shownherein, the connective features can be common and/or complex in shapeand design depending, for example, on storage intent for the particularapplication. Still yet other aspects of the invention relating to thearm are shown by way of example in FIGS. 26 through 30 and describedherein. Further aspects include hooks and cam-type stops as describedherein. Still further aspects include methods of making and/or usingtool racks, arms, hooks, and cam-type stops.

Referring now to FIG. 1, there is shown an exemplary embodiment of atool rack 20 embodying several aspects of the invention. As shown, thetool rack 20 generally includes a base 22 and a plurality of arms 30pivotably mounted to the base 22 such that the arms 30 can swivelrelative to the base 22.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the base 22 includes a generally C-shapedchannel or cross-section. The base 22 includes a generally horizontalfirst rib or flange 24 and a generally horizontal second rib or flange26. The ribs 24 and 26 are spaced apart from one another and extendgenerally outwardly from a generally vertical portion 27. In thisparticular embodiment, the ribs or mounting surfaces 24 and 26 aregenerally parallel to one another.

As shown in FIG. 2, generally circular holes 28 extend completelythrough the upper and lower ribs 24 and 26. Each hole 28 in the upperrib 24 is aligned with a corresponding hole in the lower rib 26. Asdescribed herein, these vertically-extending holes 28 function aspivotal connection points for the arms 30. Alternatively, the base 22can include other types of openings or apertures that function aspivotal connection points for the arms 30. For example, otherembodiments include a base having non-circular holes, a base havingopenings (e.g., blind holes, etc.) that do not extend completely throughthe upper and lower ribs, combinations thereof, etc.

With reference now to FIGS. 1 and 3, the arms 30 can be pivotablymounted to the base 22 such that the arms 30 can swivel relative to thebase 22. Each arm 30 includes end portions 34 and 36 configured (e.g.,sized, shaped, etc.) to be slidably positioned at least partially withinthe holes 28 defined by the respective upper and lower ribs 24 and 26 ofthe base 22. This pivotal mounting arrangement allows the arms 30 toswivel relative to the base 22.

Each arm 30 also includes a tool support portion 38, which in oneembodiment is formed of sheet metal (or other suitable material). In theillustrated embodiment, the tool support portion 38 provides multiplehook locations for selectively attaching hooks (or other suitable toolsupport devices) at various locations along the arm 30. Exemplary hooksthat can be attached to an arm in various embodiments of the inventioninclude wire pegboard-style hooks 50 as shown in FIG. 3, a hook 52 asshown in FIG. 6, and/or a hook 58 shown in FIG. 8, combinations thereof,etc.

In various embodiments, the base 22 is formed by extrusion. In theseparticular embodiments, the base 22 may include a generally C-shapedchannel extruded from nylon, plastic, aluminum, another extrudablematerial, combinations thereof, etc. As shown in FIG. 2, the channel 22generally includes first and second spaced-apart parallel ribs orflanges 24 and 26. Each flange 24 and 26 includes a plurality ofspaced-apart apertures or openings 28. The apertures 28 extendingthrough the first flange 24 are concentrically aligned withcorresponding apertures 28 extending through the second flange 26, toprovide one or more pairs of concentrically aligned apertures 28. Theapertures 28 function as pivotal connection points for the arms 30.Alternatively, the apertures 28 can also be used for pivotallyconnecting another support structure, such as arm 130 (FIG. 9), arm 330(FIG. 21), arm 430 (FIG. 22), arm 730 (FIG. 26), arm 830 (FIG. 27), arm930 (FIG. 28), arm 1130 (FIG. 30), combinations thereof, etc.

In the illustrated embodiment, the apertures 28 are generally circularholes through the flanges 24 and 26 that are configured (e.g., sized,shaped, etc.) to provide support for the support rod's end portions 34and 36 (FIG. 1) of the arms 30. The end portions 34 and 36 of thesupport rod or bar 32 are configured to be slidably positioned into theapertures 28 in the first and second flanges 24 and 26.

In various embodiments, the apertures 28 are configured such that thesidewalls defining the apertures 28 have sufficient surface area todistribute the load of the rod end portions 34 and 36 for reducing therotational friction between the rod end portions 34 and 36 and theaperture sidewalls. Accordingly, the arms 30 can be pivotally supportedfrom the base 22 by slidably positioning the rod end portions 34 and 36within apertures 28 of the first and second flanges 24 and 26. With thispivotal mounting arrangement, the arms 30 are able to relatively freelyswivel relative to the base 22.

The mounting base 22 can also include one or more mounting openings 31(e.g., slots, holes, notches, etc.) that can be used for mounting thebase 22 to a vertical support surface (e.g., wall, corner, etc.) withone or more fasteners (e.g., screws, etc.). In the illustratedembodiment of FIGS. 1 and 3, six spaced-apart generally circular holes31 are defined through the portion 27 of the base 22. By way of example,these holes 31 can be spaced to allow the base 22 to be mounted to studsspaced sixteen inches apart from one another. Alternatively, more orless than six openings and/or different types and sizes of mountingopenings can be used in other embodiments for mounting the base to awall or other vertical support surface. In further embodiments, the base22 can be attached to a wall using any other suitable means with orwithout the openings 31. In addition, the dimensions set forth in thisparagraph (as are all dimensions set forth herein) are mere examples andcan be varied depending, for example, on the particular application.

FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an arm 30 that canbe used with one or more of the tool racks of the present invention. Asshown, the arm 30 includes a support rod 32 at one end portion thereof,and a tool support portion 38 extending outwardly from the support rod32.

In the illustrated embodiment, the arm's tool support portion 38comprises sheet metal that has been formed (e.g., bent, shaped, etc.) tohave a generally U-shaped cross-section defining an interior space.Alternatively, the tool support portion 38 may be formed from othermaterials and/or define other channel shapes besides U-shaped channel.In other embodiments, the tool support portion may not include a channeldefining an interior space, such as the embodiments shown in FIGS. 21and 22 and described below.

The support rod 32 may be formed from a wide range of materials,including metals, plastics, composite materials, etc. In one particularembodiment, the support rod 32 comprises an aluminum bar having agenerally round or circular transverse cross-section. Alternatively,other suitable cross-sectional shapes and materials can be used for thesupport rod 32 in other embodiments.

As shown in FIG. 5, the support rod 32 has been formed (e.g., bent,shaped, etc.) to have a generally C-shaped portion 33 with the endportions 34 and 36 depending generally downwardly from the portion 33.The end portions 34 and 36 are coaxially aligned with each other. Theend portions 34 and 36 are configured (e.g., shaped, sized, positioned,etc.) such that the end portions 34 and 36 can be slidably positionedwithin respective upper and lower holes 28 of the base 22.

As shown in FIG. 3, the support rod's generally C-shaped portion 33 ispositioned within the interior space defined by the generally U-shapedchannel of the sheet metal portion. The support rod's end portions 34and 36, however, are external to the generally U-shaped channel of thetool support portion 38.

In one particular embodiment, the support rod 32 is welded to the sheetmetal portion of the arm 30. Alternatively, any other suitable means(e.g., adhesives, friction or interference fits, mechanical fasteners,resilient ribs, combinations thereof, etc.) may be employed for engagingthe support rod 32 to the tool support portion 38 depending, forexample, on the particular materials used for the support rod 32 and thetool support portion 38.

In various embodiments, the tool support portion 38 can also includeribs or stiffeners 41 that are integrally formed into or attached to thesheet metal forming the tool support portion 38. These stiffeners 41 canbe configured to provide the arm 30 with additional strength andreinforcement, for example, to inhibit twisting of the arm 30 if the arm30 is supporting more weight on one side than the other (e.g.,supporting tools on only one side, etc.). By way of example, variousembodiments include the stiffeners 41 bonded to the sheet metal bywelding, adhesives, mechanical fasteners (e.g., screws, etc.),combinations thereof, etc. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4, thestiffeners 41 on one side of the arm 30 may be attached (e.g., welded,etc.) or abut against the corresponding stiffeners 41 on the other sideof the arm 30. Alternate embodiments include arms that do not includethe stiffeners 41, such as the arms 130 shown in FIG. 9.

The tool support portion 38 of the arm 30 includes a plurality oflaterally spaced-apart openings 39. In one particular embodiment, theopenings 39 are drilled into the sheet metal forming the tool supportportion 38. While drilling the openings 39, the stiffeners 41 can helpassist with locating the positions at which the openings 39 should bedrilled. Alternatively, the openings 39 can be formed using othersuitable methods.

The openings 39 provide multiple hook locations for selectivelyattaching hooks (or other suitable tool support devices) at variouslocations along the arm 30. Exemplary hooks that can be attached to thearm 30 include wire pegboard-style hooks 50 as shown in FIG. 3, a hook52 as shown in FIG. 6, a hook 58 having a cam-type stop 59 as shown inFIG. 8, combinations thereof, etc.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 3, the arm 30 includes threevertically-spaced rows of the laterally-spaced openings 39 on each sideof the tool support portion 38. Accordingly, having thevertically-spaced rows of openings 39 also allows hooks to be spacedvertically from one another. Alternate embodiments include arms havingmore or less than three vertically-spaced rows of openings and/or armshaving different means besides openings for attaching hooks. Forexample, FIG. 9 illustrates another tool rack 120 having arms 130 withonly one row of laterally-spaced openings 139 on each side of the arm130.

With reference back to FIG. 1, this particular illustrated tool rack 20includes arms 30 having tool support portions 38 formed from sheet metalwith laterally-spaced openings 39, and formed bars 32 with end portions34 and 36 that may easily be inserted into apertures 28 of the mountingbase 22. Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention provideeasy-to-assemble tool racks with attachable hooks that may be adjustablypositioned to support a variety of differently-sized tools.

In various embodiments, either or both end portions 34 and 36 mayinclude openings for receiving a cotter pin or other stop. After the rodend portions 34 and 36 are slidably positioned within the apertures 28,a cotter pin may be positioned within an opening defined by either orboth of the rod end portions 34 and 36 to inhibit removal of the arm 30from the mounting base 22. Alternatively, other stops besides cotterpins can be used in other embodiments for inhibiting removal of an armfrom a mounting base.

During use, one or more tools may be supported from the arm 30. With theweight of the arm 30 and the tools supported thereby, the arm 30 acts asa loaded cantilever resulting in a bending moment M (FIG. 1) at the baseof the cantilever acting on the upper rod end portion 34. The bendingmoment M is the product of the arm length and the cantilever load L atthe distal end or tip of the arm. The bending moment M is also equal tothe product of the spacing length S (distance between the upper andlower apertures 28 and rod end portions 34 and 36) and the force(opposite F2) that is exerted by the wall at the location of the lowerrod end portion 36. The cantilever load L accordingly causes a force tobe applied via the rod end portions 34 and 36 against and away from themounting base 22. As shown in FIG. 1, a force F1 in a direction awayfrom the mounting base 22 is applied via the upper rod end portion 34 tothe mounting base 22. A force F2 in a direction towards the mountingbase 22 is applied via the lower rod end portion 36 to the mounting base22 and against the wall. The wall provides an equal but opposite forceto the mounting base 22 that counters the force F2, and the bendingmoment M at the base 22 of the cantilever acting about the upper rod endportion 34. The rod end portions 34 and 36 accordingly provide fordistributing the force resulting form the cantilever load to two pivotpoints. In various embodiments, the lower rod end portion 36 issufficiently spaced from the upper rod end portion 34 to reduce theeffects of the bending moment acting about the upper rod end portion 34.By virtue of the lower rod end 36 being spaced from the upper rod endportion 34, the rod end portions 34 and 36 thus establish two points ofsupport, which, in turn, provide improved support over a single pivotrod design. If only the upper rod end portion 34 were employed, the fullcantilever load would produce a bending moment acting only on the upperrod end portion 34. This, in turn, would result in a higher transverseforce acting between the upper rod end portion 34 and the upper aperture28 than what would occur in two sufficiently spaced rod end portions 34and 36 as in various embodiments of the present invention. In variousembodiments, the spacing between the upper and lower openings in thebase and the first and second rod end portions is about one-sixth thelength of the arm, such that the bending moment caused by the cantileverload on the arm results in a transverse force acting on the rod endportions that is about six times that of the cantilever load.Accordingly, various embodiments of the present invention can providefor reduced frictional force and reduced wear between the pivotingelements and the apertures. Alternatively, the spacing between the upperand lower openings in the base and/or the spacing between the first andsecond end portions can be greater or less than about one-sixth thelength of the arm depending, for example, on the particular application.Furthermore, the first and second coaxially aligned rod end portions arepreferably configured to be easily inserted into the concentricallyaligned apertures, without the use of tools or fasteners such as screws,bolts, rivets, or other fastening device that would require the use of atool to assemble or affix.

In addition, having two spaced-apart end portions 34 and 36 (instead ofa single rod defining the end portions 34 and 36) allows the arm 30 tobe pivotably mounted to the base 22 with less clearance. The endportions 34 and 36 can be slidably positioned within the apertures 28with less drop-down height being needed than that needed for an armhaving a single rod defining the end portions. This, in turn, increasesthe mountability of the tool rack 20 by allowing the tool rack 20 to bemounted in more locations, such as more closely to a ceiling or otherhorizontal surface. Other embodiments, however, include arms with asingle rod that is slidably positioned within upper and lower aperturesof a base.

In various embodiments, the channel defined by the base can be sized toallow one or more of the arms to swivel into a position in which the armis generally confined within the channel. In these embodiments, the armscan be swiveled and positioned within the channel, for example, duringnon-use to get them out of the way, thus providing a very compactstorage position for the tool rack when it is not being used.

As mentioned above, a wide range of hooks and other devices capable ofsupporting tools may be selective attached at various locations alongthe arms 30. As shown in FIG. 3, exemplary hooks that can be attached tothe arm 30 include wire pegboard-style hooks 50, a hook 52 (also shownin FIG. 6), a hook 58 having a cam-type stop 59 (also shown in FIG. 8),combinations thereof, etc.

Regarding the hook 52 shown in FIG. 6, this hook 52 includes a rod thatis formed (e.g., bent, shaped, etc.) to have end portions 53 and curvedindentations 54 along the hook's upper surface. The end portions 53 canbe configured to be positioned within a corresponding pair of openingsin an arm (e.g., openings 39 in arm 30 (FIGS. 1 and 3), openings 139 inarm 130 (FIG. 9), openings 339 in arm 330 (FIG. 21, etc.). The curvedindentations 54 can be configured to cooperate with one another tosupport or accommodate certain tools having a particular size and/orshape, such shovels, rakes, etc.

The hook 52 also includes curved protrusion or looped end portions 56.These curved protrusions 56 can be configured to cooperate with anotherportion 57 of the hook 52 to accommodate and support certain toolshaving a different size and/or shape than the tools which can besupported by the curved indentations 54. Accordingly, the hook 52 can beused to support a variety of differently-sized and differently-shapedtools.

With reference now to FIGS. 7 and 8, there is shown an exemplary hook 58according to one embodiment of the invention. The hook 58 includes a rod63 that is formed (e.g., bent, shaped, etc.) to have end portions 61configured to be positioned within a corresponding pair of openings inan arm (e.g., openings 39 in arm 30 (FIGS. 1 and 3), openings 139 in arm130 (FIG. 9), openings 339 in arm 330 (FIG. 21), etc.).

The hook 58 also includes a stop 59. The stop 59 is pivotably mounted tothe rod 63. The stop 59 including a gripping end portion or surface 65for frictionally gripping a tool generally between the gripping surface65 and the arm or another adjacent surface.

In the illustrated embodiment, the gripping end portion 65 includes aplurality of protrusions or nubs. Alternatively, the gripping endportion 65 may be substantially smooth, for example, when the stop 59 isformed from a resiliently compressible material, such as rubber or arelatively soft plastic.

A wide range of materials can be used for the formed rod 63, includingmetals, plastics, composites, combinations thereof, etc. Likewise, awide range of materials can also be used for the stop 59, includingnylons, plastics, rubbers, metals, composites, combinations thereof,etc. In one particular embodiment, the formed rod 63 comprises aluminum,and the stop 59 comprises nylon.

By way of example only, FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate the hook 58 supportedfrom an arm 30 of the tool rack 220. As shown, the stop 59 has pivotedor cammed against a handle 271 of a tool being supported by the toolrack 220. The pivotal motion of the cam-type stop 59 causes the toolhandle 271 to be frictionally supported between the stop's grippingsurface 65 and the arm 30.

FIG. 9 illustrates another embodiment of a tool rack 120 having amounting base 122 and arms 130. The arms 130 are pivotably mounted tothe base 122 such that the arms 130 can swivel relative to the base 122.

In the particular embodiment of FIGS. 9 and 12, the base 122 maycomprise a stamped or pressed sheet metal bracket. Alternatively, thebase 122 may be formed from other suitable materials and/or befabricated from other suitable manufacturing processes, such asinjection molding, etc.

As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the base 122 includes first and secondspaced-apart parallel ribs or flanges 124 and 126. The ribs 124 and 126may be integrally formed or drawn from the sheet metal. Each rib 124 and126 includes a plurality of spaced-apart apertures 128. Each aperture128 in the upper rib 124 is concentrically aligned with a correspondingaperture 128 in the lower rib 126. The apertures 128 in the ribs 124 and126 thus form pairs of aligned apertures 128 that definevertical-mounting holes for functioning as pivotal connection points forarms 130. Alternatively, the apertures 128 can also be used forpivotally connecting another support structure, such as arm 30 (FIG. 3),arm 130 (FIG. 9), arm 330 (FIG. 21), arm 430 (FIG. 22), arm 730 (FIG.26), arm 830 (FIG. 27), arm 930 (FIG. 28), arm 1130 (FIG. 30),combinations thereof, etc.

The mounting base 122 can also include one or mounting openings 131(e.g., slots, holes, notches, etc.). These openings 131 can be used tomount the base 122 to a vertical support surface (e.g., wall, corner,etc.) with one or more fasteners (e.g., screws, etc.). In theillustrated embodiment of FIG. 10, the base 122 includes a generallycircular hole 131 adjacent each corner of the base 122. Alternatively,more or less than four openings, and/or different types and sizes ofmounting openings can be used in other embodiments for mounting the baseto a wall or other vertical support surface. In further embodiments, thebase 122 can be attached to a wall using any other suitable means withor without the openings 131.

With continued reference to FIG. 9, the tool rack 120 includes arms 130.In other embodiments, however, one or more of the arms 130 attached tothe tool rack 120 can be replaced by another arm, such as the arm 30(FIG. 3), or any one of the arms shown in FIGS. 21, 22, 26, 27, 28, and30, etc.

As shown in FIG. 9, each arm 130 includes a support rod at one endportion thereof. Each arm 130 also includes a tool support portion 138extending outwardly from the support rod.

In the illustrated embodiment, the arm's tool support portion 138comprises sheet metal that has been formed (e.g., bent, shaped, etc.) tohave a generally U-shaped cross-section defining an interior space.Alternatively, the tool support portion 138 may be formed from othermaterials and/or define other channel shapes besides U-shaped channel.In other embodiments, the tool rack 120 may be used with an arm having atool support portion that does not include a channel, such as the armsshown in FIGS. 21 and 22 and described below.

The support rod of the arm 130 may be formed from a wide range ofmaterials, including metals, plastics, composite materials, etc. In oneparticular embodiment, the support rod comprises an aluminum bar havinga generally round or circular transverse cross-section. Alternatively,other suitable cross-sectional shapes and materials can be used for thesupport rod in other embodiments.

As shown in FIG. 9, the support rod is positioned at least partiallywithin the interior space defined by the generally U-shaped channel ofthe sheet metal portion. The support rod's end portions 134 and 136,however, are external to the generally U-shaped channel of the toolsupport portion 138.

The support rod's end portions 134 and 136 are coaxially aligned witheach other. The end portions 134 and 136 are also configured (e.g.,shaped, sized, positioned, etc.) such that the end portions 134 and 136can be slidably positioned within respective upper and lower openings128 of the base 122.

In one particular embodiment, the support rod is welded to the sheetmetal portion of the arm 130. Alternatively, any other suitable means(e.g., adhesives, friction or interference fits, mechanical fasteners,resilient ribs, combinations thereof, etc.) may be employed for engagingthe support rod to the tool support portion 138 depending, for example,on the particular materials used for the support rod and the toolsupport portion 138.

The tool support portion 138 of the arm 130 includes a row of laterallyspaced-apart openings 139. In one particular embodiment, the openings139 are drilled into the sheet metal forming the tool support portion138. Alternatively, the openings 139 can be formed using other suitablemethods.

The openings 139 provide multiple hook locations for selectivelyattaching hooks (or other suitable tool support devices) at variouslocations along the arm 130. Exemplary hooks that can be attached to thearm 130 include wire pegboard-style hooks 50, a hook 52 as shown in FIG.6, a hook 58 having cam-type stop 59 as shown in FIG. 8, combinationsthereof, etc.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 9, bushings 140 are positionedwithin the mounting openings 128. These bushings 140 are preferablyformed of a material that allow for easier rotation of the arms 130relative to the base 122 by reducing friction associated with therelative rotation. In various embodiments, the bushings 140 preferablyprovide sufficient surface area to distribute the load of the rod endportions 134 and 136 for reducing rotational friction between the rodend portions 134 and 136 and the mounting openings 128. Whether it isdesirable to use bushings may depend, for example, on the particularmaterials used for the arms and the base. For example, FIG. 1illustrates an embodiment in which bushings are not shown positionedwithin the mounting openings 28. In other embodiments, however, bushingscan be positioned within the mounting openings 28 depending, forexample, on the particular materials used for the base 22 and thesupport rod 32.

Depending on the particular application, the bushings 140 may beconfigured to remain stationary relative to the base 122 such that thearm 130 rotates relative to the bushing 140. For example, each bushing140 may be sized and shaped to snuggly fit within one of the mountingopenings 128 to thereby form a sufficient friction or interference fitwith the base 122 such that the bushing 140 does not rotate along withthe arm 130. Having the arm 130 rotate within the bushing 140 can helpreduce wear and tear on the arm 130 due to the rotational movement,which, in turn, can help prolong the useful life of the arm.

Alternatively, a bushing may be coupled for common rotation with the armsuch that the arm and bushing rotate together relative to the base. Forexample, FIG. 31 illustrates an exemplary bushing 1040′ having a notchor groove 1080 along an upper portion 1084 of the bushing 1040′extending from the central passageway 1088 through the bushing 1040. Thearm 130 may then be engagingly positioned within the bushing's notch1080 to thereby retain the positioning of the bushing 1040′ relative tothe arm 130. In which case, the bushing 1040′ would rotate along withthe arm 130. In such embodiments, this can help ensure that possiblewear and tear due to the rotational movement is on the bushing 1040′ andnot the arm 130, thus helping to prolong the useful life of the arm 130.

As shown in FIG. 11, the ribs 124 and 126 respectively include taperedor angled upper surfaces 167 and 169. To accommodate for this taper ordraft angle, the bushings 140 include tapered shoulders 142 as shown inFIGS. 13 through 16. The tapered shoulder 142 allows the upper surfaceof the bushing 140 to remain relatively flat and horizontal despite theangled surfaces 167, 169 of the respective ribs 124, 126.

FIGS. 17 through 20 illustrate another embodiment of a tool rack 220that is shown supporting various tools. As shown, the tool rack 220includes the base 122 (also shown in FIGS. 10 through 12), arms 30 (alsoshown in FIGS. 3 and 4), bushings 140 (also shown in FIGS. 13 through16), hooks 52 (also shown in FIG. 6), and hooks 58 (also shown in FIGS.7 and 8).

FIG. 21 illustrates another embodiment of a tool rack 320. As shown, thetool rack 320 includes the base 122 (also shown in FIGS. 10 through 12)and arms 330. The arms 330 are pivotably mounted to the base 122 suchthat the arms 330 can swivel relative to the base 122.

Each arm 330 includes a formed bar 332 having first and second endportions 334 and 336. The end portions 334 and 336 are configured to beslidably inserted into upper and lower apertures 128 in the base 122.

Each arm 330 includes a tool support portion 338. In this particularembodiment, the tool support portion 338 comprises a generally flatpiece of sheet metal, although other suitable materials can be used forthe tool support portion 338. In one particular embodiment, the sheetmetal forming the tool support portion 338 is welded to the bar 332.Alternatively, any other suitable means (e.g., adhesives, friction orinterference fits, mechanical fasteners, resilient ribs, combinationsthereof, etc.) may be employed for engaging the tool support portion 338to the bar 332, depending, for example, on the particular materials usedfor the bar 332 and the tool support portion 338.

The tool support portion 338 includes a plurality of laterallyspaced-apart openings 339. In one particular embodiment, the openings339 are drilled into the sheet metal forming the tool support portion338. Alternatively, the openings 339 can be formed using other suitablemethods.

The openings 339 provide multiple hook locations for selectivelyattaching hooks (or other suitable tool support devices) at variouslocations along the arm 330. Exemplary hooks that can be attached to thearm 330 include wire pegboard-style hooks 350, a hook 52 as shown inFIG. 6, a hook 58 having a cam-type stop 59 as shown in FIG. 8,combinations thereof, etc.

FIG. 22 illustrates another embodiment of a tool rack 420. As shown, thetool rack 420 includes the base 122 (also shown in FIGS. 10 through 12)and arms 430. The arms 430 are pivotably mounted to the base 122 suchthat the arms 430 can swivel relative to the base 122.

Each arm 430 includes a formed bar 432 having end portions 434 and 436.The end portions 434 and 436 are configured to be slidably inserted intoupper and lower apertures 428 in the base 422.

In this particular embodiment, hooks 450 are welded to the formed bar432. Alternatively, other suitable means can be used for attaching hooksto the arms 430.

FIGS. 23 through 24 illustrate another embodiment of a tool rack 520. Asshown in FIG. 23, the tool rack 520 includes a base 522 and arms 30(also shown in FIGS. 3 and 4). The arms 30 are pivotably mounted to thebase 522 such that the arms 30 can swivel relative to the base 522.

In this particular embodiment, the base 522 may comprise a formed sheetmetal bracket. Alternatively, the base 522 may be formed from othersuitable materials and/or be fabricated from other suitablemanufacturing processes, such as injection molding, etc.

As shown in FIG. 24, the base 522 includes first and second spaced-apartparallel ribs or flanges 524 and 526. The base 522 may be rolled to formthese integral first and second ribs 524 and 526, or may be processed byother means to produce integral ribs 524 and 526.

Each rib 524 and 526 includes a plurality of spaced-apart apertures 528.Each aperture 528 in the upper rib 524 is concentrically aligned with acorresponding aperture 528 in the lower rib 526. Accordingly, theapertures 528 in the ribs 524 and 526 form pairs of aligned apertures528 that define vertical-mounting holes for functioning as pivotalconnection points for the arms 30. Alternatively, the apertures 528 canalso be used for pivotally connecting another support structure, such asarm 130 (FIG. 9), arm 330 (FIG. 21), arm 430 (FIG. 22), arm 730 (FIG.26), arm 830 (FIG. 27), arm 930 (FIG. 28), arm 1130 (FIG. 30),combinations thereof, etc.

As shown in FIG. 23, a backing plate 529 may be secured to the base 522to reinforce the base 522. In one particular embodiment, the backingplate 529 comprises a generally rectangular steel plate welded to thebase 522. Alternatively, other suitable materials can be used for thebacking plate 529, and/or any other suitable means (e.g., adhesives,mechanical fasteners, combinations thereof, etc.) may be employed forattaching the backing plate 529 to the base 522.

FIG. 25 illustrates another embodiment of a tool rack 620. As shown inFIG. 25, the tool rack 620 includes a base 622 and arms 30 (also shownin FIGS. 3 and 4). The arms 30 are pivotably mounted to the base 622such that the arms 30 can swivel relative to the base 622.

In this particular embodiment, the base 622 may be fabricated bystamping, pressing, punching, forging, combinations thereof, etc. Thebase 622 includes apertures 628 along upper and lower portions of thebase 622. The upper apertures 628 are aligned with the lower apertures,thus providing vertical mounting openings for functioning as pivotalconnection points for the arms 30. Alternatively, the apertures 628 canalso be used for pivotally connecting another support structure, such asarm 130 (FIG. 9), arm 330 (FIG. 21), arm 430 (FIG. 22), arm 730 (FIG.26), arm 830 (FIG. 27), arm 930 (FIG. 28), arm 1130 (FIG. 30),combinations thereof, etc.

The apertures 628 may be defined by eyelets or barrel-type cylinders 664attached (e.g., welded, adhesively bonded, etc.) to the base 622. In oneparticular embodiment, the eyelets 664 comprise pieces of strap materialwelded to the base 622.

A backing plate 629 may be secured to the base 622 to reinforce the base622. In one particular embodiment, the backing plate 629 comprises agenerally rectangular steel plate welded to the base 622. Alternatively,other suitable materials can be used for the backing plate 629, and/orany other suitable means (e.g., adhesives, mechanical fasteners,combinations thereof, etc.) may be employed for attaching the backingplate 629 to the base 622.

FIG. 26 illustrates another embodiment of a tool rack 720 suited formounting in a corner. As shown, the tool rack 720 includes a base 722having an upper portion 724 and a lower portion 726. The upper and lowerportions 724 and 726 are generally triangular shaped, which facilitatesmounting of the tool rack 720, for example, in a corner of a room.

Apertures 728 are disposed along both the upper and lower portions 724and 726. The upper apertures 728 are generally aligned with the lowerapertures 728. Accordingly, the upper and lower apertures 728 form pairsof aligned apertures 528 that define vertical-mounting holes forfunctioning as pivotal connection points for the arms 730.Alternatively, the apertures 728 can also be used for pivotallyconnecting another support structure, such as arm 30 (FIGS. 3 and 4),arm 130 (FIG. 9), arm 330 (FIG. 21), arm 430 (FIG. 22), arm 830 (FIG.27), arm 930 (FIG. 28), arm 1130 (FIG. 30), combinations thereof, etc.

As shown in FIG. 26, the base 722 includes mounting openings 731 (e.g.,slots, holes, notches, etc.) that can be used for mounting the base 722to a vertical support surface (e.g., wall, corner, etc.) with one ormore fasteners (e.g., screws, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment ofFIG. 26, the base 722 includes a plurality of mounting slots 731.Alternatively, the base 722 can include more or less slots than thatshown in FIG. 26. In addition, the base 722 can also or alternativelyinclude different types and sizes of mounting openings. In furtherembodiments, the base 722 can be attached to a wall using any othersuitable means with or without the openings 731.

In the particular illustrated embodiment of FIG. 26, each arm 730includes a formed bar 732. The formed bar 732 includes end portionsconfigured to be slidably inserted into upper and lower apertures 728 inthe base 722.

In addition, hooks 750 are welded to the formed bar 732. Alternatively,other suitable means can be used for attaching hooks to the arms 730.

FIG. 27 illustrates another embodiment of a tool rack 820 suited formounting in a corner. As shown, the tool rack 820 includes a base 822having first and second portions disposed generally perpendicular to oneanother, for example, to facilitate mounting of the tool rack 820 in acorner.

The base 822 includes upper apertures generally aligned with lowerapertures. Accordingly, the upper and lower apertures form pairs ofaligned apertures that define vertical-mounting holes for functioning aspivotal connection points for the arms 830. Alternatively, the aperturescan also be used for pivotally connecting another support structure,such as arm 30 (FIGS. 3 and 4), arm 130 (FIG. 9), arm 330 (FIG. 21), arm430 (FIG. 22), arm 730 (FIG. 26), arm 930 (FIG. 28), arm 1130 (FIG. 30),combinations thereof, etc.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 27, the apertures are defined byeyelets or barrel-type cylinders 864 attached (e.g., welded, adhesivelybonded, etc.) to the base 822. In one particular embodiment, the eyelets864 comprise pieces of strap material welded to the base 822.

With continued reference to FIG. 27, each arm 830 includes a formed bar832. The formed bar 832 includes end portions configured to be slidablyinserted into upper and lower apertures defined by the cylinders 864,which, in turn, are attached to the base 822. Either or both of theouter arms 830 may further comprise bends or offset portions 878 toprovide more spacing between adjacent arms 830.

In addition, hooks 850 are welded to the formed bar 832. Alternatively,other suitable means can be used for attaching hooks to the arms 830.

FIG. 28 illustrates another embodiment of a tool rack 920. As shown, thetool rack 920 includes a base 922 and arms 930. The arms 930 arepivotably mounted to the base 922 such that the arms 930 can swivelrelative to the base 922.

The base 922 includes upper apertures generally aligned with lowerapertures. Accordingly, the upper and lower apertures form pairs ofaligned apertures that define vertical-mounting holes for functioning aspivotal connection points for the arms 930. Alternatively, the aperturescan also be used for pivotally connecting another support structure,such as arm 30 (FIGS. 3 and 4), arm 130 (FIG. 9), arm 330 (FIG. 21), arm430 (FIG. 22), arm 730 (FIG. 26), arm 830 (FIG. 27), arm 1130 (FIG. 30),combinations thereof, etc.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 28, the apertures are defined byeyelets or barrel-type cylinders 964 attached (e.g., welded, adhesivelybonded, etc.) to the base 922. In one particular embodiment, the eyelets964 comprise pieces of strap material welded to the base 922.

The base 922 includes mounting openings 931 (e.g., slots, holes,notches, etc.) that can be used for mounting the base 922 to a verticalsupport surface (e.g., wall, corner, etc.) with one or more fasteners(e.g., screws, etc.). Alternatively, the base 922 can include more orless openings and/or at different locations than that shown in FIG. 28.In addition, the base 922 can also or alternatively include differenttypes and sizes of mounting openings. In further embodiments, the base922 can be attached to a wall using any other suitable means with orwithout using the openings 931.

With continued reference to FIG. 28, each arm 930 includes a formed bar932. The formed bar 932 includes end portions configured to be slidablyinserted into upper and lower apertures defined by the cylinders 964,which, in turn, are attached to the base 922. Either or both of theouter arms 930 may further comprise bends or offset portions 978 toprovide more spacing between adjacent arms 930.

In addition, hooks 950 are welded to the formed bar 932. Alternatively,other suitable means can be used for attaching hooks to the arms 930.

FIG. 29 illustrates another embodiment of a tool rack 1020 suited formounting in a corner. As shown, the tool rack 1020 includes a base 1022and arms 1030. The arms 1030 are pivotably mounted to the base 1022 suchthat the arms 1030 can swivel relative to the base 1022.

The base 1022 includes an upper portion 1024 and a lower portion 1026.The upper portion 1024 is generally triangular shaped. The lower portion1026 includes first and second portions disposed generally perpendicularto one another. Accordingly, the configuration of the base 1022facilitates mounting of the tool rack 1020, for example, in a corner ofa room.

The base 1022 includes upper apertures 1028 generally aligned with lowerapertures. Accordingly, the upper and lower apertures form pairs ofaligned apertures that define vertical-mounting holes for functioning aspivotal connection points for the arms 1030.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 29, the upper apertures 1028 aredefined by the upper portion 1024 of the base 1022. The lower aperturesare defined by barrel-type cylinders 1064 attached (e.g., welded,adhesively bonded, etc.) to the bottom of the upper portion 1024.

The base 1022 includes mounting openings 1031 (e.g., slots, holes,notches, etc.) that can be used for mounting the base 1022 to a verticalsupport surface (e.g., wall, corner, etc.) with one or more fasteners(e.g., screws, etc.). Alternatively, the base 1022 can include more orless openings and/or at different locations than that shown in FIG. 29.In addition, the base 1022 can also or alternatively include differenttypes and sizes of mounting openings. In further embodiments, the base1022 can be attached to a wall using any other suitable means with orwithout using the openings 1031.

With continued reference to FIG. 29, each arm 1030 includes a formed bar1032. The formed bar 1032 includes upper and lower end portionsconfigured to be slidably inserted into upper and lower apertures 1028.In this particular embodiment, the lower end portions 1036 extendsgenerally upwardly for insertion into the lower opening of the barrel1064.

In addition, hooks 1050 are welded to the formed bar 1032.Alternatively, other suitable means can be used for attaching hooks tothe arms 1030.

Bushings 1040 can also be positioned within the apertures 1028, forexample, to reduce friction associated with the relative rotationbetween the arms 1030 and the base 1022.

Depending on the particular application, the bushings 140 may beconfigured to remain stationary relative to the base 1022 such that thearm 1030 rotates relative to the bushing 1040. For example, each bushing1040 may be sized and shaped to snuggly fit within one of the mountingopenings 1028 to thereby form a sufficient friction or interference fitwith the barrel 1064 such that the bushing 1040 does not rotate alongwith the arm 1030. Having the arm 1030 rotate within the bushing 1040can help reduce wear and tear on the arm 1030 due to the rotationalmovement, which, in turn, can help prolong the useful life of the arm1030.

Alternatively, each bushing 1040 may be coupled for common rotation withan arm 1030 such that the arm 1030 and bushing 1040 rotate togetherrelative to the base 1022. For example, FIG. 31 illustrates an exemplarybushing 1040′ having a notch or groove 1080 along an upper portion 1084of the bushing 1040′ extending from the central passageway 1088 throughthe bushing 1040. The arm 1030 may then be engagingly positioned withinthe bushing's notch 1080 to thereby retain the positioning of thebushing 1040′ relative to the arm 1030. In which case, the bushing 1040′would rotate along with the arm 1030. In such embodiments, this can helpensure that possible wear and tear due to the rotational movement is onthe bushing 1040′ and not the arm 1030, thus helping to prolong theuseful life of the arm 1030.

FIG. 30 illustrates another embodiment of a tool rack 1120 suited formounting in a corner. As shown, the tool rack 1120 includes a base 1122and arms 1130. The arms 1130 are pivotably mounted to the base 1122 suchthat the arms 1130 can swivel relative to the base 1122.

The base 1122 includes upper and lower portions 1124 and 1126 extendinggenerally outwardly from generally vertical portion 1127. The portion1127 includes first and second portions disposed generally perpendicularto one another. Accordingly, this exemplary configuration of the base1122 facilitates mounting of the tool rack 1120, for example, in acorner of a room.

The base 1122 includes upper apertures 1128 generally aligned with lowerapertures 1128. Accordingly, the upper and lower apertures 1128 formpairs of aligned apertures that define vertical-mounting holes forfunctioning as pivotal connection points for the arms 1130.Alternatively, the apertures 1128 can also be used for pivotallyconnecting another support structure, such as arm 30 (FIGS. 3 and 4),arm 130 (FIG. 9), arm 330 (FIG. 21), arm 430 (FIG. 22), arm 730 (FIG.26), arm 830 (FIG. 27), arm 930 (FIG. 28), combinations thereof, etc.

With continued reference to FIG. 30, the upper apertures 1128 aredefined by the upper portion 1124 of the base 1122. The lower apertures1128 are defined by eyelets or barrel-type cylinders 1064 attached(e.g., welded, adhesively bonded, etc.) to the lower portion 1126 of thebase 1122.

The base 1122 includes mounting openings 1131 (e.g., slots, holes,notches, etc.) that can be used for mounting the base 1122 to a verticalsupport surface (e.g., wall, corner, etc.) with one or more fasteners(e.g., screws, etc.). In this particular illustrated embodiment, thebase 1122 includes two slots 1131 and a generally circular hole 1131.Alternatively, the base 1122 can includes more or less openings and/orat different locations than that shown in FIG. 30. In addition, the base1122 can also or alternatively include different types and sizes ofmounting openings. In further embodiments, the base 1122 can be attachedto a wall using any other suitable means with or without using theopenings 1131.

In the particular illustrated embodiment of FIG. 30, each arm 1130includes a formed bar 1132. The formed bar 1132 includes end portions1134 and 1136 configured to be slidably inserted into respective upperand lower apertures 1128 in the base 1122.

In addition, hooks 1150 are welded to the formed bar 1132.Alternatively, other suitable means can be used for attaching hooks tothe arms 1130.

Bushings 1140 can also be positioned within the apertures 1128. Thebushings 1140, for example, can help reduce friction associated with therelative rotation between the arms 1130 and the base 1122.

FIG. 32 illustrates another embodiment of a tool rack 1220 that includesa base 1222 and arms 1230. The arms 1230 are pivotably mounted to thebase 1222 such that the arms 1230 can swivel relative to the base 1222.In this particular embodiment, the arm's lower end portions 1236 includeopenings 1237 for receiving a cotter pin 1243. Accordingly, after anarm's end portions 1234 and 1236 have been slidably positioned withinthe apertures of the base 1222, a cotter pin 1243 may be positionedwithin the arm's opening 1237 to inhibit removal of the arm 1230 fromthe mounting base 1222. Alternatively, other stops besides cotter pinscan be used in other embodiments for inhibiting removal of an arm from amounting base. In addition, other embodiments can include both endportions 1234 and 1236 having openings 1237, only the upper end portions1234 having openings 1237, or neither end portion 1234 and 1236 havingopenings 1237.

In various embodiments, an arm can include a stop for inhibitingcontinued downward movement of the arm end portions into the openings ofthe mounting base. The stop may be an integral part of the arm such thatthe arm and stop are integrally or monolithically as a single component.Alternatively, the stop may be a separate component that is separateengaged to the arm.

In the particular illustrated embodiment in FIG. 33, members 1245 aredisposed on the arm end portions 1234 and 1236. The members 1245 includea lower shoulder 1247 that operates as stop to inhibit continueddownward movement of the arm 1230 relative to the base 1220 once themembers 1245 abut against the mounting base 1222. In variousembodiments, the circular members 1245 may be an integral part of thearm 1230 such that the members 1245 and the arm 1230 are integrallyformed as a single component. In other embodiments, the members 1245 maybe separately attached to the arm 1230. Further embodiments includeother stops besides the generally circular members 1245 for inhibitingdownward movement of an arm relative to a mounting base, such asbushings, clamps, non-circular members, and/or members defining ashoulder that does not go completely around the arm end portion.

Various aspects of the invention can be used with a wide range of toolsand other equipment, including yard tools, rakes, shovels, hoes,clippers, brooms, fishing poles, wrenches, etc. Accordingly, thespecific references to tools herein should not be construed as limitingthe scope of the invention to only one specific form/type of tool.Further, the particular methods of manufacture and geometries disclosedherein are exemplary in nature and are not to be considered limiting.The steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to beconstrued as necessarily requiring their performance in the particularorder discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as anorder or performance. It is also to be understood that additional oralternative steps may be employed. In addition, any one or more aspects(e.g., tool racks, bases, arms, hooks, bushings, methods of making suchcomponents, methods of using such components, etc.) of the invention maybe implemented individually or in any combination with any one or moreof the other aspects of the invention.

Certain terminology is used herein for purposes of reference only, andthus is not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as “upper”,“lower”, “above”, and “below” refer to directions in the drawings towhich reference is made. Terms such as “front”, “back”, “rear”, “bottom”and “side”, describe the orientation of portions of the component withina consistent but arbitrary frame of reference which is made clear byreference to the text and the associated drawings describing thecomponent under discussion. Such terminology may include the wordsspecifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similarimport. Similarly, the terms “first”, “second” and other such numericalterms referring to structures do not imply a sequence or order unlessclearly indicated by the context.

When introducing elements or features of the present invention and theexemplary embodiments, the articles “a”, “an”, “the” and “said” areintended to mean that there are one or more of such elements orfeatures. The terms “comprising”, “including” and “having” are intendedto be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements orfeatures other than those specifically noted.

The description of the invention is merely exemplary in nature and,thus, variations that do not depart from the gist of the invention areintended to be within the scope of the invention. Such variations arenot to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of theinvention.

1. A tool rack comprising: a base for mounting the tool rack to asupport surface, the base defining a channel having an upper surface anda lower surface spaced apart from the upper surface, the upper surfaceincluding at least one opening extending generally vertically therein,the lower surface including at least one opening extending generallyvertically therein and concentrically aligned with the at least oneopening of the upper surface; and at least one arm including a bar atone end portion of the arm and a tool support portion, the bar havingfirst and second spaced-apart end portions coaxially aligned with oneother, the bar's first and second end portions configured to be slidablypositioned at least partially within the respective openings of theupper and lower surfaces of the base, thereby enabling the arm to bepivotally supported from the base without the use of fasteners or toolsand such that the arm can swivel relative to the base, the arm's toolsupport portion formed of sheet metal attached to the bar and providingmultiple hook locations for selectively attaching hooks at variouslocations along the arm.
 2. The tool rack of claim 1 wherein the barincludes a generally circular transverse cross-section.
 3. The tool rackof claim 1 wherein the arm includes a plurality of laterally-spacedopenings configured to receive a plurality of hooks, thelaterally-spaced openings providing multiple hook locations forselectively attaching hooks at various locations along the arm.
 4. Thetool rack of claim 3 wherein the plurality of laterally-spaced openingsincludes at least a first row of laterally-spaced openings and a secondrow of laterally-spaced openings, the second row being vertically-spacedfrom the first row.
 5. The tool rack of claim 1 wherein the basecomprises an extruded generally C-shaped channel.
 6. The tool rack ofclaim 1 wherein the base comprises a formed sheet metal bracket havingfirst and second spaced-apart ribs integrally formed therewith, thefirst and second ribs respectively including the upper and lowersurfaces of the base.
 7. The tool rack of claim 1 wherein the spacingbetween the bar's first and second end portions and the openings in theupper and lower surfaces of the base is about one-sixth the length ofthe arm such that the bending moment caused by a cantilever load on thearm results in a transverse force acting on the bar's first and secondend portions about six times the cantilever load.
 8. The tool rack ofclaim 1 further comprising a plurality of bushings each having a taperedshoulder and positioned within a corresponding one of the openings inthe upper and lower surfaces of the base.
 9. The tool rack of claim 1further comprising at least one hook supportable from the arm, the hookincluding a formed rod having curved portions configured to accommodateand allow the hook to support different tool sizes.
 10. The tool rack ofclaim 1 further comprising a hook supportable from the arm, the hookincluding a formed rod and a pivotal cam-type stop pivotably mounted tothe rod, the stop including a gripping surface for frictionally grippinga tool generally between the gripping surface and the tool supportportion of the arm.
 11. A tool rack comprising: a base for mounting thetool rack to a support surface, the base including first and secondspaced-apart ribs extending outwardly therefrom, the first rib having atleast one aperture therein concentrically aligned with at least oneaperture of the second rib; and at least one arm including a support rodhaving first and second spaced-apart end portions coaxially aligned withone other, the support rod's first and second end portions respectivelyconfigured to be slidably positioned at least partially within the atleast one aperture in the first rib and the at least one aperture in thesecond rib to thereby pivotally support the arm from the base such thatthe arm can swivel relative to the base.
 12. The tool rack of claim 11wherein the support rod's first and second end portions are configuredto be slidably positioned at least partially within the apertures tothereby enable the arm to be pivotally mounted to the base without theuse of fasteners or tools.
 13. The tool rack of claim 11 wherein the armhas a generally U-shaped transverse cross-section defining an interiorspace, and wherein the support rod is secured at least partially withinthe interior space at the one end portion of the arm.
 14. The tool rackof claim 11 wherein the arm includes a plurality of laterally-spacedopenings configured to receive a plurality of hooks, thelaterally-spaced openings providing multiple hook locations forselectively attaching hooks at various locations along the arm.
 15. Thetool rack of claim 14 wherein the plurality of laterally-spaced openingsincludes at least a first row of laterally-spaced openings and a secondrow of laterally-spaced openings, the second row being vertically-spacedfrom the first row.
 16. The tool rack of claim 11 wherein the basecomprises an extruded generally C-shaped channel.
 17. The tool rack ofclaim 11 wherein the base comprises a formed sheet metal bracket withthe first and second ribs integrally formed therewith, and a pluralityof apertures in each said rib to provide one or more pairs ofconcentrically aligned apertures.
 18. The tool rack of claim 17 whereinthe base further comprises a backing plate secured to the formed sheetmetal bracket to thereby reinforce the formed sheet metal bracket. 19.The tool rack of claim 11 further comprising a plurality of bushingseach having a tapered shoulder and positioned within a corresponding oneof the apertures.
 20. The tool rack of claim 11 further comprising atleast one stop for securing the support rod's first and second endportions within the apertures.
 21. The tool rack of claim 11 furthercomprising at least one hook supportable from the arm, the hookincluding a formed rod having curved portions configured to accommodateand allow the hook to support different tool sizes.
 22. The tool rack ofclaim 11 further comprising a hook supportable from the arm, the hookincluding a formed rod and a pivotal cam-type stop pivotably mounted tothe rod, the stop including a gripping surface for frictionally grippinga tool generally between the gripping surface and the tool supportportion of the arm.
 23. A method related to a tool rack having a baseand at least one arm, the base including an upper surface and a lowersurface spaced apart from the upper surface, the upper surface includingat least one opening extending generally vertically therein, the lowersurface including at least one opening extending generally verticallytherein and concentrically aligned with the at least one opening of theupper surface, an end portion of the arm including first and secondspaced-apart members coaxially aligned with one other, the methodcomprising pivotably mounting the arm to the base without using anytools or fasteners by slidably positioning the arm's first and secondmembers at least partially within the respective openings of the upperand lower surfaces of the base such that the arm can swivel relative tothe base.
 24. The method of claim 23 wherein the method includesselectively attaching one or more hooks to the arm at various locationsalong the arm.
 25. The method of claim 23 wherein pivotably mountingincludes positioning a bushing in each of the openings of the upper andlower surfaces, and slidably positioning the arm's first and secondmembers at least partially within the respective bushings.
 26. Themethod of claim 23 further comprising mounting the base to a wall.
 27. Amethod of making a tool rack, the method comprising: extruding amaterial to form a channel having an upper surface and a lower surfacespaced apart from the upper surface, forming at least one opening thatextends generally vertically in the upper surface of the channel;forming at least one opening that extends generally vertically in thelower surface of the channel and that is concentrically aligned with theat least one opening of the upper surface; forming a piece of sheetmetal to have a generally U-shaped cross-section defining an interiorspace, attaching a support rod to the formed piece of sheet metal suchthat the support rod is at least partially within the interior spacedefined by the formed piece of sheet metal, the support rod includingfirst and second spaced-apart end portions coaxially aligned with oneother, the support rod's first and second end portions respectivelyconfigured to be slidably positioned at least partially within the atleast one opening in the upper surface of the channel and the at leastone opening in the lower surface of the channel to thereby enable thesupport rod and formed piece of sheet metal attached thereto to bepivotably supported from and swivel relative to the base.
 28. The methodof claim 27 further comprising forming a plurality of laterally-spacedopenings in the piece of sheet metal to thereby provide multiple hooklocations for selectively attaching hooks at various locations along thepiece of sheet metal.
 29. The method of claim 27, further comprising,without using any tools or fasteners, slidably positioning the supportrod's first and second members at least partially within the respectiveopenings of the upper and lower surfaces of the channel.